Roger Clemens’ lawyers say Rocket belongs in Hall of Fame

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Lawyers representing ex-Astros pitcher Roger Clemens told the Los Angeles Times on Monday their client should be elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame and it’ll be “shameful” if The Rocket is barred because of unfounded suspicion he used performance-enhancing drugs.

“For them to say, ‘He’s not getting into the Hall of Fame because I know he did it’? I think that’s shameful,” said Michael Attanasio, who co-represented Clemens during June in a U.S. District Court case.

Clemens was found non-guilty on six charges after being accused of lying to Congress and obstructing justice in 2008 when he denied taking steroids.

Hall of Fame voting results are due in early January for a collection of candidates that includes first-time nominees such as Barry Bonds Mike Piazza, Sammy Sosa and Clemens. Former Astros stars Craig Biggio and Jeff Bagwell are also up for nomination.

Clemens, 50, won the 1986 American League MVP award and seven Cy Young titles. The 354-game winner pitched for five teams in 24 seasons and was a key part of Houston’s 2005 World Series run.

Clemens holds a special services contract with the Astros and is expected to take a more active role with the club in 2013.